Arabic Proverbs

Feryal Almajhad Proverb and sayings are the depository cultures wisdom. The following are ten Arabic proverbs, which, I think, provide a good idea about what Arabs think is the proper conduct when dealing with family members and with adversity. An examination of these proverbs reveals that contrary to widespread prejudices, Arabic culture values women very highly, teaches self reliance, and to be reasonable.

Paradise is under the feet of mothers This proverb emphasis the belief that we ought to honor our mothers and that by doing so we at the same time perform a religions duty. This proverb shows that Arabic proverb often have a religious sources. This proverb also encourages respect among family members.

1. The best among you are those who are best to their women We learn from this proverb that Arabic culture and Islam have a deep respect for women. In fact, Islam puts the man who treats women well above the men who is not gentle and does not respect for women. This respect does not apply to wives only but also to mothers, daughters, and sisters as well.

2. A monkey in his mothers eye is a gazelle This proverb conveys the idea that Arab mothers cherish their children very much and accept them no matter what to the point that sometimes they are too permissive.

3. Evil has been broken Contrary to the American view, which holds that to break a mirror brings seven years of bad luck, Arabs believe that breaking something of value may dispel evil. This proverb indicates an optimistic outlook.

4. A sharp tongue cuts deeper than a sword We learn from this proverb that Arabs are very sensitive to the power of words, insults and compliments. This is the opposite of the American saying, Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me for Arabs, words are stronger than actions.

5. Nothing scratches your skin like your own nails This proverb teaches to be independent and never rely on others to do what your can do your self. It also indicates that no one can serve you interest as well as you can.

6. The absent has his excuse with him What this proverb says is that we should not condemn someone who does not show up for a meeting or a dinner. We should always give that person the benefit of that doubt. That person may have a good excuse.

7. If you want to be obeyed, demand what is possible

This proverb is directed at people who have positions of responsibility. It tells them to be reasonable when dealing with others. For example, a good boss is someone who asks from his employees only what they can do. It is only by being reasonable that he/she can control the situation.

8. Receiving the lashes is not the same as counting them According to this proverb only someone who has suffered really knows the meaning of suffering. Only someone who has been poor knows the meaning of poverty. This proverb emphasizes the importance of experience in becoming wise.

9. Not everything that is known can be told Contrary to American culture in which almost everything is made public, In Arabic culture there are certain things such as marital problems should always be hidden from the public.

In conclusion, proverbs are a good place to start in order to understand different culture. However, one should be critical when dealing with proverbs because sometimes they contradict each others.